Consumer Reports: Tesla Model S Among Best Ever Reviewed

Consumer Reports, the independent firm which tests and rates new cars and trucks, says the Tesla Model S performs better, or at least as well as, any other vehicle CR has ever driven.

Consumer Reports rates the Tesla Model S a 99 out of 100 points. It is the first time since 2007 the firm has given a rating that high for a vehicle it reviewed.

"The Tesla Model S is packed with technological innovation," said Jake Fisher, director of Automotive Testing for Consumer Reports. "It accelerates, handles and brakes like a sports car, it has the ride and quietness of a luxury car and is far more energy efficient than the best hybrid cars."

The glowing review comes one day after Tesla reported much better than expected earnings for the first quarter. Tesla earned 12 cents a share while analysts estimated the company would make just 4 cents a share.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency Praised

Consumer Reports lauded the Model S for delivering the quietest ride of any vehicle since 2007 when it test drove the Lexus LS460 L. It also heralded the car's acceleration and handling.

Tesla Model S Scores With Consumer Reports

Jake Fisher, Consumer Reports, explains why he gave the electric car a near-perfect rating of 99 out of 100.

In commenting on the electric car's fuel efficiency, Consumer Reports wrote, "The Model S has been delivering closer to 200 miles-ample for commuting, running plenty of errands and still being able to take the long, winding road home. Range has varied from about 180 miles on cold winter days to about 225 in more moderate temperatures.

Over that distance, CR's Model S returned the equivalent of 84 mpg. And with a full charge costing about $9 (at the national average of 11 cents per kWh), it's like running a conventional car on gasoline that costs $1.20 per gallon."

Tesla Raises Model S Forecast

After posting its first profitable quarter, Tesla announced that it expects to sell more the 21,000 Model S vehicles this year. That's an increase of 1,000 vehicles compared to prior guidance.

In the first quarter Tesla sold 4,900 Model S vehicles, 400 above its prior guidance.